For the Bagobo tribes of Mindanao, “Apo” means grandfather. With a height of 2954 meters, Mount Apo is the highest mountain in the country. Situated in Davao del Sur, it is a dormant volcano, with three major peaks and a wide volcanic crater containing the crystal clear Lake Venado. Climbing Mount Apo requires hiking through thick mossy forests, steep trails and most notably, an endless trek up giant rock boulders below the mountain’s summit. Sulphur vents and deposits are silent reminders of the volcanic past deep under Mount Apo. The mountain is home to several species of plants and animals, including the beautiful, but nearly extinct Philippine Monkey-eating Eagle.

How to get there: Fly to Davao City then hire a jeepney for the cities of Digos of Kidapawan.

Breads and Pastries Philippines Cuisine

In a typical Filipino bakery, pandesal, monay and ensaymada are often sold. Pandesal comes from the Spanish pan de sal (literally, bread of salt), and is a ubiquitous breakfast fare, normally eaten with (and sometimes even dipped in) coffee.